What Do Have?

mr-mom · #1 06-09-2011, 06:51 PM

New member here, Howdy to all!

I have a Smith & Wesson, 5-shot .38, top break, that I inherited from my Father. He carried it for years while he and my mother traveled. I would like to determine the model and approximate year of production. Where do I start?
mr-mom
aka Dave

cgt4570 · #2 06-09-2011, 07:31 PM

Post pictures and serial number.

mr-mom · #3 06-10-2011, 09:37 AM

Thanks for your response! I will attempt to attach a picture of the revolver I have.

mr-mom · #4 06-10-2011, 09:39 AM

Serial Number 4777

DCWilson · #5 06-10-2011, 09:49 AM

That's called a .38 Double Action Perfected. These were produced from about 1909 to WWI. Interesting revolver because it combines features of both the top-break design and the subsequent hand ejector design (thumb release for the cylinder). That's a fairly low serial number, so if you put production within a year of 1910, you'd be pretty much on target.

mr-mom · #6 06-10-2011, 10:03 AM

Chris....thanks for your reply and the information on my Father's hand gun. I had spent some time looking at posts and pictures on this forum and was thinking this piece was somewhere in that range of age and style. I've had it in the safe for several years, but my wife has taken an interest in it lately and is actually enjoying shooting it. Gotta be careful tho, or it will go the way of my Sig P238 which she has laid claim to and carries in her purse

!
Dave

TACC1 · #7 10-14-2011, 12:59 PM

That's a really fine looking 38. Way nicer than mine. I noticed
when cleaning that the addition of the side-latch keeps one from
pulling the hammer back. The other Top Breaks I have are in 32S&W,
and will allow the hammer to be drawn back when revolver is open.
Again, a fine firearm and great family history. TACC1